Climate controlled beverage container

ABSTRACT

A cooling system comprises a container that is conductively coupled or convectively coupled to a thermoelectric device to selectively cool and/or heat the container. A climate controlled container system for a vehicle includes a container or cavity and a conduction element configured to cool the cavity. In some embodiments, the cooling system comprises a housing, a housing inlet, a fluid passage and one or more thermoelectric devices and fluid transfer devices positioned within the housing.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/669,117, filed Jan. 30, 2007, which claims thepriority benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional ApplicationNo. 60/763,460, filed Jan. 30, 2006 and U.S. Provisional Application No.60/849,948, filed Oct. 6, 2006, the entireties of all of which arehereby incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

1. Field

This application relates to a temperature control system for acontainer. More specifically, this application relates to vehicle cupholders and cooling systems configured to receive and cool or heat abeverage.

2. Description of the Related Art

Most cars and other vehicles include one or more cup holders which areconfigured to receive a can, cup, bottle or other type of beveragecontainer. Recently, some luxury vehicles have been provided with acooled container. The cooled container can be used to store drinksand/or food at a temperature that is below the ambient temperature inthe vehicle. Often, the container is cooled by a cooling system thatincludes a thermoelectric device (TED), which has a hot side and a coldside. A heat sink in the form of a waste side heat exchanger isthermally coupled to the hot side of the TED. A pump or fan is providedto promote convective heat transfer through the waste side heatexchanger. In some instances, the cold side of the TED is conductivelycoupled to the container. In other instances, the cool side of the TEDis used to cool air, which, in turn, cools the container throughconvection.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

There exists a need for a cup holder assembly that is configured to cooland/or heat a beverage container placed therein. Accordingly, one aspectof the present invention comprises a climate controlled container systemfor a vehicle. In some embodiments, the climate controlled containersystem includes a container comprising walls that define a cavity and aconduction element configured to cool the cavity and a cooling system.In some embodiments, the cooling system comprises a housing, an inlet inthe housing, a fluid passage defined at least in part by the housing anda thermoelectric device positioned within the housing and having a coldside and a hot side. According to some embodiments, the cold side of thethermoelectric device is conductively coupled to the conduction element,while the hot side of the thermoelectric device is conductively coupledto a heat exchanger that is positioned within the fluid passage. Thecooling system further comprises a fluid transfer device positionedwithin the housing. The fluid transfer device, which includes a fanconfigured for rotation about an axis, is configured to transfer airfrom the inlet to the fluid passage. In some embodiments, the fluidtransfer device is configured such that the heat exchanger is positionedbetween the thermoelectric device and the fan of the fluid transferdevice.

In one embodiment, the fan is a radial fan. In other embodiments, thefan is an axial fan. In some embodiments, the axis of the fan extendsthrough the thermoelectric device. In yet other embodiments, the axis ofthe fan extends through the heat exchanger. In still another embodiment,the flow through the fluid passage is substantially perpendicular to theflow entering the fan.

According to another embodiment, a climate controlled container systemfor a vehicle includes a container comprising walls that define acavity, an inlet into the cavity and an outlet out of the cavity, athermoelectric device that comprises a cold side and a hot side, a hotside heat exchanger that is conductively coupled to the hot side of thethermoelectric device, a cold side heat exchanger that is conductivelycoupled to the cold side of the thermoelectric device, a cold side inletpassage that places the cold side heat exchanger in fluid communicationwith the inlet of the container, a fluid transfer device, arecirculation passage that is in fluid communication with the outlet ofthe cavity and the cold side inlet of the fluid transfer device, a coldside fluid passage that is in fluid communication with the cold sideoutlet of the fluid transfer device and the cold side heat exchanger anda hot side fluid passage that is in communication with the hot sideoutlet of the fluid transfer device and the hot side heat exchanger.According to some embodiments, the fluid transfer device includes arotating fan, a cold side inlet, a cold side outlet, a hot side inlet,and a hot side outlet, the fluid transfer device being configured suchthat fluid entering the cold side inlet is transferred to the cold sideoutlet and fluid entering the hot side inlet is transferred to the hotside outlet.

In one embodiment, a cooled cup holder includes a container that definesa cavity having a first open end and a sealing member configured to forma seal about a beverage container inserted through the first open endand a cooling system that comprises a thermoelectric device. The coolingsystem is configured to provide cooled air to the cavity of thecontainer. In other embodiments, the cup holder assembly includes two ormore cup holder cavities, each of which can be independently temperaturecontrolled.

In some embodiments, a cup holder assembly comprises a housing forming afirst cup holder and a second cup holder, each cup holder defining acavity having a first open end. In addition, a cup holder assemblyincludes a cooling system that comprises a first thermoelectric devicehaving a first side conductively coupled to the first cup holder and aheat exchanger positioned within a passage and a second thermoelectricdevice having a first side conductively coupled to the second cup holderand a heat exchanger positioned within the passage, and a fluid transferdevice configured to transfer air through the passage and to the heatexchangers of the first and second thermoelectric devices. In otherembodiments, a cup holder assembly is configured so that each cup holdercan be cooled and/or heated independently of the other cup holders.

According to other embodiments, the cup holder further comprises vanespositioned in the passage. The vanes are configured to distribute theair substantially evenly to the heat exchangers of the first and secondthermoelectric devices. In other embodiments, the cup holder assemblyfurther comprises vanes positioned in the passage, the vanes beingconfigured to distribute the air substantially evenly across the heatexchangers of the first and second thermoelectric devices.

In other embodiments, a cup holder includes a housing that defines acavity having a first open end, a cooling system that comprises athermoelectric device and a sensor configured to sense the presenceand/or the temperature of a container in the cavity.

In some embodiments, a container holder comprises a housing thatincludes a side wall that defines a cavity with at least one open endand that extends about a generally vertical axis, a cooling system thatcomprises a first thermoelectric device, a heat exchanger and a fluidtransfer device configured to transfer air through the heat exchangerand means for tilting a cup with tapered sides against the side wall ofthe housing. Further, the thermoelectric device being conductivelycoupled to at least a portion of the housing.

In other embodiments, a container holder comprises a housing thatincludes a side wall that defines a cavity with at least one open endand that extends about a generally vertical axis, a moveable memberextending from the side wall and configured to apply an inwardlydirected force against a container positioned within the cavity and acooling system that comprises a first thermoelectric device, a heatexchanger and a fluid transfer device configured to transfer air throughthe heat exchanger, the thermoelectric device being conductively coupledto at least a portion of the moveable member.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention are described with reference to drawings of certain preferredembodiments, which are intended to illustrate, but not to limit, thepresent invention. It is to be understood that the attached drawings arefor the purpose of illustrating concepts of the present invention andmay not be to scale.

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a container and cooling system inaccordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of a thermoelectric device of thecooling system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3A is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a heatexchanger;

FIG. 3B is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of a heatexchanger;

FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of a containerand cooling system;

FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of a container,cooling system and a fluid transfer device;

FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a cooling system;

FIG. 7 is a top view of the cooling system of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is rear perspective view of the cooling system of FIG. 6;

FIG. 9 is a rear view of the cooling system of FIG. 6;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken through line 10-10 of FIG. 7;

FIG. 11 is a front view of the cooling system of FIG. 6 with a top halfof a housing removed;

FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of a fan of the cooling system ofFIG. 6;

FIG. 13A is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a fluidtransfer device;

FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional view of the fluid transfer device of FIG.13A;

FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of the fluid transfer device of FIG.13A;

FIG. 15 is a front perspective view of the fluid transfer device of FIG.13A with an inlet of the fluid transfer device removed;

FIG. 16A is a front view of the fluid transfer device of FIG. 13A withthe inlet removed;

FIG. 16B is a cross-sectional view of the fluid transfer device of FIG.16A;

FIG. 17 is a front view of the fluid transfer device of FIG. 13A with atop half of a housing removed;

FIG. 18A is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of afluid transfer device;

FIG. 18B is a top view of another embodiment of a fan configured todischarge two separate flow streams;

FIG. 18C is a side view of the fan of FIG. 18B;

FIG. 18D is a schematic illustration of a fan with a plurality of vanesaccording to one embodiment;

FIG. 18E is a modified fan arrangement according to another embodiment;

FIG. 18F is a schematic illustration of an cooling system according toone embodiment;

FIG. 19A is a top view of an embodiment of a cup holder;

FIG. 19B is a cross-sectional view of the cup holder taken through line19B-19B of FIG. 19A;

FIG. 19C is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a cupholder;

FIG. 19D is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a cupholder;

FIG. 20A is a cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of a cupholder;

FIG. 20B is a cross-sectional view of still another embodiment of a cupholder;

FIG. 21A is a top view of one embodiment of a cup holder;

FIG. 21B is a top view of another embodiment of a cup holder;

FIG. 22A is a top view of another embodiment of a cup holder;

FIG. 22B is a top view of yet another embodiment of a cup holder;

FIG. 22C is a cross-sectional view taken through line 22C-22C of FIG.22B;

FIG. 22D is a cross-sectional view taken through line 22D-22D of FIG.22B;

FIG. 23A is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of acup holder;

FIG. 23B is a schematic cross-sectional view of yet another embodimentof a cup holder;

FIG. 24A illustrates one embodiment of a bias member for a cup holder;

FIG. 24B illustrates another embodiment of a bias member for a cupholder;

FIG. 24C illustrates yet another embodiment of a bias member for a cupholder;

FIG. 25 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a bladderarrangement for a cup holder.

FIG. 26A illustrates a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of abladder arrangement for a cup holder.

FIG. 26B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the cup holder of FIG.26A with the bladder arrangement in a different position.

FIG. 27A illustrates a bladder arrangement for a cup holder according toanother embodiment;

FIG. 27B illustrates a bladder arrangement for a cup holder according toyet another embodiment;

FIG. 27C illustrates a bladder arrangement for a cup holder according tostill another embodiment;

FIG. 28A illustrates another embodiment of a bladder arrangement for acup holder;

FIG. 28B illustrates the cup holder of FIG. 28A with the bladderarrangement in a different position;

FIG. 29A illustrates an embodiment of a cup holder that is configured todetect the presence of an item placed therein;

FIG. 29B schematically illustrates an embodiment of a contact switch foruse in the cup holder of FIG. 29A;

FIG. 30 illustrates a top view of an embodiment for biasing athermoelectric device;

FIG. 31A illustrates a side view of an embodiment for biasing athermoelectric device;

FIG. 31B illustrates a side view of another embodiment for biasing athermoelectric device;

FIG. 32A illustrates a side view of one embodiment for biasing athermoelectric device;

FIG. 32B illustrates a side view of another embodiment for biasing athermoelectric device;

FIG. 32C illustrates a side view of yet another embodiment for biasing athermoelectric device;

FIG. 32D illustrates a side view of still another embodiment for biasinga thermoelectric device;

FIG. 32E illustrates time sequential side views of one embodiment forbiasing a thermoelectric device for a cup holder;

FIG. 33 illustrates an embodiment of a cup holder with temperaturesensors;

FIG. 34A illustrates an embodiment for biasing a container against awall of a cup holder;

FIG. 34B illustrates another embodiment for biasing a container againsta wall of a cup holder using a tilting member;

FIG. 35 illustrates one embodiment for biasing a container against awall of a cup holder;

FIG. 36A illustrates another embodiment for biasing a container againsta wall of a cup holder;

FIG. 36B illustrates yet another embodiment for biasing a containeragainst a wall of a cup holder;

FIG. 36C illustrates still another embodiment for biasing a containeragainst a wall of a cup holder;

FIG. 37A illustrates a top view of an embodiment for biasing a containeragainst a wall of a cup holder;

FIG. 37B illustrates a detailed top view of the cup holder of FIG. 37A;

FIG. 38 illustrates a top view of another embodiment for biasing acontainer against a wall of a cup holder;

FIG. 39A illustrates a side view of one embodiment for biasing acontainer against a wall of a cup holder;

FIG. 39B is a cross-sectional view of the cup holder of FIG. 39A;

FIG. 39C illustrates a side view of the cup holder of FIG. 39A in whicha beverage container has been placed;

FIG. 39D is a cross-sectional view of the cup holder and beveragecontainer of FIG. 39C;

FIG. 40 illustrates the varying positions of a biasing member accordingto one embodiment;

FIG. 41A illustrates a cross-sectional view of another embodiment forbiasing a container against a wall of a cup holder;

FIG. 41B illustrates a side view of the cup holder of FIG. 41A in whicha beverage container has been placed;

FIG. 42 illustrates side views of one embodiment of a cup holder whichis configured to receive a bottle;

FIG. 43A illustrates a perspective view of a roller pusher for a cupholder according to one embodiment;

FIG. 43B illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a cup holder whichincludes the roller pusher of FIG. 43A;

FIG. 43C illustrates a perspective view of a member configured toreceive roller pusher for a cup holder according to one embodiment;

FIG. 43D illustrates a side view of the member of FIG. 43C;

FIG. 43E illustrates a top view of the member of FIG. 43C;

FIG. 44A illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a pusher orbiasing member;

FIG. 44B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of apusher or biasing member;

FIG. 44C illustrates a perspective view of yet another embodiment of apusher or biasing member;

FIG. 45 illustrates side views of a cup holder and a cup holder insertaccording to one embodiment;

FIG. 46A illustrates a top view of one embodiment of a dual cup holderassembly;

FIG. 46B illustrates a schematic of one embodiment of a dual cup holderassembly;

FIG. 47A illustrates a schematic of another embodiment of a dual cupholder assembly;

FIG. 47B illustrates a schematic of yet another embodiment of a dual cupholder assembly;

FIG. 47C illustrates a schematic of still another embodiment of a dualcup holder assembly;

FIGS. 48A-48J are various views of an embodiment of a dual cup holderarrangement for a center console of an automobile.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Various containers comprising cooling systems are disclosed herein. Asdiscussed, such containers can have different shapes, sizes andconfigurations. The containers can be cooled (or heated) using a varietyof methods, such as, for example, convective, conductive and/or othertechniques.

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of container 10 and a cooling system12 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In oneembodiment, the container 10 and cooling system 12 are configured to bepositioned within a vehicle (e.g., an automobile, airplane, etc.). Inother embodiments, the container 10 and cooling system 12 can be used asa portable cooler. With respect to embodiments for an automobile, thecontainer 10 can be positioned at various locations within theautomobile, such as, for example, within the glove box, between the twofront and/or back seats, within the trunk, in door panels, cup holdersand/or along the sides of the interior (e.g., interior panels). Inanother embodiment, the container can be positioned within a bed of apickup truck (e.g., within a tool container box or as a separate unit).

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1, the container 10 defines anenclosed, partially-enclosed or enclosable interior space 14. Thus, thecontainer can include one or more walls 16, a floor 18 and a top 20. Thecontainer 10 can also include a door or lid (not shown) to provideaccess to the interior space 14. The container 10 includes a conductionelement 22, which can be placed on or near the interior 14 of thecontainer 10. The conduction element 22 is preferably formed from ahighly conductive material (e.g., copper, aluminum, etc.). Theconduction element, in turn, can be surrounded by insulation 25, whichcan form an exterior surface of the container 10. The conduction element22 can be positioned on or define the interior of the walls 16, floor18, top 20 and/or door of the container 10 and/or any portion thereof.

With continued reference to FIG. 1, the cooling system 12 includes athermoelectric device 24. As will be explained below, the thermoelectricdevice 24 is configured to cool the conduction element 22. In thismanner, the interior space 14 of the container 10 is cooled throughconduction. Thus, items (food, drinks, electronic devices, film) storedin the container 10 can be maintained at a temperature that is coolerthan the environment outside the container 10.

In the illustrated embodiment, the thermoelectric device 24 comprises acold side 26 and a hot side 28. As will be explained below, the coldside 26 of the device 24 is placed into conductive contact with theconduction element 22. The hot side, in turn, is placed into conductivecontact with a heat sink/exchanger 30. In one embodiment, the heat sink30 comprises convention elements (e.g., fins), which are configured toremove and/or transfer heat through convention.

It should be appreciated that in other embodiments the cold side 26 andhot side 28 can be reversed. That is, an advantage of thermoelectricdevices 24 is that they can be used to provide heating or cooling. Thus,in a different mode of operation the “cold” side 26 becomes the “hot”side and the “hot” side 28 becomes the “cold” side. In this mode, theheat sink 30 is used to transfer heat from the ambient air (i.e., removeheat from the ambient air) and transfer it to the “hot” side 26 of thedevice. Accordingly, it should be appreciated that in the descriptionherein the terms “cold side” and “hot side” can be used interchangeablydepending upon whether heating or cooling of the container is desired.Moreover, in some embodiments, the cold and hot sides are referred to asthe first and second sides of the thermoelectric device in order toemphasize the heating and cooling modes of the device.

With continued reference to FIG. 1, the cooling system can include afluid transfer device 32 (e.g., a fan), which is configured to force airor another cooling fluid over the heat sink 30 to aid convection throughthe heat sink 30.

The thermoelectric device 24 is preferably a Peltier device. Oneembodiment of such a device is shown schematically in FIG. 2. Asdescribed in the above embodiment, the thermoelectric device 24 includesthe cold side 26, which is conductively connected to the conductionelement 22, and a hot side 28 which is conductively connected to theheat exchanger 30. The Peltier device 24 also comprises at least onepair of dissimilar materials 34 connected electrically in series andthermally in parallel. The dissimilar materials 34 can be mountedbetween a pair of plates 36 a, 36 b positioned on the cold and hot sides26, 28 of the device 24. The plates 36 a, 36 b can preferably providefor heat conduction and electrical insulation. A thermal interfacematerial (e.g., grease, pad or solder) can be used to conductivelycouple the cold side plate 36 a to the conduction member 22. In asimilar manner, a thermal interface (e.g., grease, pad or solder) can beused to conductively couple the hot side plate 36 b to a waste heatexchanger 30. In other embodiments, one or more intermediate elementscan be provided between the plates 36 a, 36 b and the conduction element22 and/or heat exchanger 30. The waste heat exchanger 30 is configuredtransfer heat to (and/or withdraw heat from) the ambient air. The fluiddevice 32 (see FIG. 1) is preferably configured to direct fluid throughthe waste heat exchanger 30 to facilitate the transfer of heat throughconvention.

Typically, the dissimilar materials 34 comprise a series of n-type andp-type semiconductor elements that are connected electrically in seriesand thermally in parallel. An electrical circuit is configured to passcurrent through the dissimilar materials 34. Depending on the directionof current passing through the thermoelectric device 24, one side of thedevice will be heated and the opposing side will be cooled. In theillustrated embodiment, the thermoelectric device 24 is configured suchthat the cold side 26 is cooled and the hot side 28 is heated whencurrent is routed to the device 24. However, the device 24 can beconfigured such that the current can be reversed, causing the cold side26 to be heated and the hot side 28 to be cooled.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate embodiments of the waste side heat exchanger30A, 30B that can be positioned within a heat exchanger passage asdescribed herein. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3A, the heatexchanger 30A comprises a thin sheet 100A of highly conductive material(e.g., copper). The thin sheet is then bent into a plurality of folds102A. As shown, on a first side 104A, a first fold a is provided suchthat the sheet 100A extends in a first direction F. A second fold b isprovided such that the sheet 100 extends downwardly (with respect toorientation shown in FIG. 3A). A third fold c is then provided such thatsheet 100A extends in the first direction F again. A fourth fold d isprovided such that the sheet extends upwardly. A fifth fold e isprovided and the pattern is repeated again.

In the alternative embodiment depicted in FIG. 3B, a thin sheet 100B issimilarly bent into a plurality of folds 102B. As shown, on a first side104B, a first fold aa is provided such that the sheet 100B extends in afirst direction F. A second fold bb is provided such that the sheet 100Bextends downwardly (with respect to orientation shown in FIG. 3B) and isslanted in a direction G that is generally opposite to the firstdirection F. A third fold cc is then provided such that sheet 100Bextends in the first direction F again. A fourth fold dd is providedsuch that the sheet extends upwardly and is slanted in the seconddirection G, which is opposite to the first direction F. A fifth fold eeis provided and the pattern is repeated again.

With respect to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the flow is generally directed in adirection that is into and out of the page. The illustrated embodimentsof the heat exchanger 30 have been proven to be highly effective.However, it is anticipated that modified embodiments can utilize heatexchangers of different or modified configurations. For example, variouscombinations of fins, porous or fibrous materials, cells (e.g.,honeycombed shapes) can be used.

FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of a container210 and cooling system 212. In this embodiment, reference numbers fromprevious embodiments are used to identify components that are similar orsubstantially similar. The illustrated embodiment includes athermoelectric device 24 with a cold side 26 and a hot side 28. The coldside 26 is conductively coupled to the conductive element 22 of thecontainer 210. The hot side 28 is conductively coupled to the heatexchanger 30. As shown, the fluid transfer device 232 is in the form ofan axial fan. The heat exchanger 30 is preferably positioned behind theaxial fan 232 and in front of the thermoelectric device 24. The air fromthe axial fan 232 is directed towards the heat exchanger 30 in a firstdirection. Then, either within or after the heat exchanger 30, the airis turned approximately 90 degrees towards an outlet 294. The system 212can have one outlet 294 or a plurality of outlets 294 as shown in FIG.4.

FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of a container310 and cooling system 312. In this embodiment, reference numbers fromprevious embodiments are used to identify components that are similar orsubstantially similar to the previous embodiment.

As shown, the container 310 can include one or more walls 16, a floor 18and a top 20. The container 10 can also include a door or lid (notshown) to provide access to the interior space 14. The container 10 caninclude insulation 25, which can form an exterior surface of thecontainer 10.

In this embodiment, the interior 14 is cooled through convection.Accordingly, an inlet 302 is provided for supplying cooled air to theinterior 14 of the container 310. The cooling system 312 includes athermoelectric device 24, which can be configured substantially asdescribed above. The thermoelectric device 24 includes a cold side 26and a hot side 28. The hot side 28 can be conductively coupled to awaste side heat exchanger 30 as described above. In this embodiment, thecold side 26 of the thermoelectric device 24 is conductively coupled toa cold side heat exchanger 304.

With continued reference to FIG. 5, a single fluid transfer device 332can be provided to provide fluid to the heat exchangers 30, 304. Thetransfer device 332 can be provided with a cold side outlet 306 and ahot side outlet 308. The cold side outlet 306 directs fluid to the coldside heat exchanger 304 where the air is cooled before being transferredthrough an outlet passage 314 to the inlet 302 of the container 310. Ina similar manner, the hot side outlet 308 directs fluid to the hot sideheat exchanger 30 which is then discharged through a hot side outlet316. In this manner, the thermoelectric device 24 can provide cooled airto the interior 14 of the container 310.

The container 310 can also include an outlet 318, which is connected toa recirculation passage 320. The recirculation passage 320, in turn, isconnected to a first inlet 322 of the fluid transfer device 332. Thefluid transfer device 332 preferably also includes a second inlet 324.The fluid transfer device 332 is preferably configured such that the airfrom the first inlet 322 is delivered to the cold side heat exchanger304 through the cold side outlet 306. The fluid transfer device 332 isalso preferably configured such that the air from the second inlet 324is delivered to the hot side heat exchanger 30 through the hot sideoutlet 308. In this manner, the cold air delivered to the interior 14 ofthe container 310 can be re-circulated to improve response times andcooling efficiencies. In modified embodiments, the cooling system caninclude two fluid transfer devices that are individually associated withthe cool and hot side heat exchangers 304, 30.

With reference to FIGS. 6-10, another embodiment of the cooling system12 will now be described. In this embodiment, the cooling system 12advantageously provides a compact arrangement in which thethermoelectric device 24 (FIG. 10) and the fluid transfer device 32 arearranged in manner which conserves space. FIGS. 6-10 are frontperspective, top, rear perspective, rear and cross-sectional views,respectively, of the cooling system 12. In the orientation shown, thecooling system 12 includes a top side 40, a bottom side 42, a rear side44, a front side 46, a left side 48 and a right side 50.

With continued reference to FIGS. 6-10, the cooling system 12 comprisesa housing or shell 52. In one embodiment, the housing 52 includes rearand front halves 54 a, 54 b. The housing 52 can be formed from of avariety of materials. In one embodiment, each half 54 a, 54 b is formedfrom a suitable plastic through a molding process. Alternatively, anyother methods for manufacturing the halves 54 a, 54 b can be used (e.g.,thermoforming, etc.). Each half 54 a, 54 b is preferably provided withcorresponding connection bosses 56 such that the halves 54 a, 54 b canbe joined together via fasteners (e.g., bolts or screws). One or moreother connection methods can be used, either in lieu of or in additionto the fasteners. As will be explained below, the housing 52 isconfigured to house the thermoelectric device 24 and the fluid transferdevice 32. The housing 52 is also configured to define various flowpaths between the fluid transfer device 32 and the thermoelectric device24.

In the illustrated embodiments, the front side 46 of the housing 52defines a generally circular inlet opening 58 (see FIG. 6). Positionedbelow the opening 58 is the fluid transfer device 32. In thisembodiment, the fluid transfer device 32 comprises a radial orcentrifugal fan 61. Accordingly, the fluid transfer device 32 includes aseries of radial fan blades 60.

With reference to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12, the fan61 further includes a hub 62 which is positioned on a disk-like base 64.The blades 60 extend upwardly from the base 64. An outer edge of theblades 60 are connected together by a circular rim member 66. As shownin FIG. 11, the housing 52 defines a generally annular enclosed space 68in which the fan 61 is positioned. The enclosed space 68 has an outlet70, which is generally positioned on the bottom end 42 of the coolingsystem 12. The outlet 70, in turn, can be connected to a transitionpassage 72 that is described in more detail below.

In use, as the fan 61 rotates in the direction of arrow A, air is drawnthrough the inlet opening 58 in a direction that is generally parallelto the rotational axis of the fan 61 (i.e., a generally axialdirection). The air is then the drawn into the enclosed space 68 andturned approximately 90 degrees to a radial direction. The air flow isthen directed as shown by arrow B toward the outlet 70. As shown, theenclosed space 68 has a cross-sectional flow area that preferablyincreases in the direction of arrow B.

The cooling system 12 includes a motor 80 for rotating the fan 61. Asseen in FIG. 10, the motor 80 can be positioned within a space definedbeneath the hub 62 of the fan 61. As shown, the hub 62 can define a boss64 for supporting a shaft (not shown) upon which the hub 62 is mounted.The shaft, in turn, is rotated by the motor 80, which is positionedgenerally beneath the hub 62. Electrical wires can be provided to powerand control the motor 80. The wires can pass through an opening 86provided on the left side of the housing 52 (see FIG. 8). In otherembodiments, the motor, hub, wires and/or other components or itemsassociated with the cooling system 12 can be configured differently thanshown and discussed herein.

With reference to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11, airdrawn in by the fan 61 is directed towards the heat exchanger 30 of thethermoelectric device 24, which is preferably positioned within thehousing 52. The thermoelectric device 24 is positioned generally on therear side 44, preferably substantially behind the fan 61. In addition,in the illustrated embodiment, the thermoelectric device 24 ispositioned such that the waste side heat exchanger 30 is situated withina heat exchange passage 90 that is also behind the hub 62 and motor 80.As shown, the heat exchange flow passage 90 is connected to the outlet70 of the annular passage 68 by the transition passage 72. Thetransition passage 72 is configured to turn the flow rearwardly and thenupwardly as shown by the arrow labeled C (FIG. 10). The flow in the heatexchange passage 90 then flows generally in an upward direction (arrowD) that is preferably generally parallel to the front and rear sides 44,46 of the housing 52. Air flow in this passage (represented by arrow D)is preferably perpendicular to the axial flow of air entering the fan 61(represented by arrow AF). Electrical connections 91 (see FIGS. 8 and 9)extend through the housing 52 to power and control the thermoelectricdevice 24.

With continued reference to FIG. 10, the rotational axis of the fan 61preferably extends through the thermoelectric device 24. The axis of thefan 61 preferably also extends through the heat exchanger 30. Further,as illustrated, the fluid passage 90 is substantially perpendicular tothe direction in which fluid enters the fan 61.

In some embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 10, the heat exchanger 30 ispositioned within the heat exchange passage 90. Thus, the fan 61 isconfigured to direct fluid over the waste side heat exchanger 30. Inthis manner, when the thermoelectric device 24 has is activated, thecold side 26 of the thermoelectric device 24 is cooled as heat istransferred from the waste side heat exchanger 30 to the air flow thoughthe passage 90. Further, air flowing over the waste side heat exchanger30 is discharged through an exit passage 92, which, in the illustratedembodiment, is directed in the same general direction as the heatexchange passage 90. The exit passage 92 includes an outlet 94, which isgenerally positioned on the top side 40 of the cooling system 12 (seealso FIG. 6).

In some embodiments, the cold side 26 of the thermoelectric device 24can be coupled to a conductive member 96. For example, the conductivemember 96 can comprise a plate of highly conductive material that isconductively coupled to a conduction element 22 of a container 10. Inthis manner, the cooling system 12 can be used to cool the interior 14of the container 12 as described herein. In another embodiment, the coldside 26 of the thermoelectric device 24 can be directly coupled to theconduction element 22.

FIGS. 13A-17 illustrate embodiments of the fluid transfer device 332illustrated in FIG. 5. These embodiments advantageously provide acompact fan with two inlets and two outlets. FIGS. 13A, 13B and 14 arefront perspective, cross-sectional, rear perspective, rear andcross-sectional views, respectively, of the fluid transfer device 332.Further, FIGS. 15 and 16 are a front perspective and front views of thedevice 332 with a cool side inlet 322 removed. FIG. 17 is a front viewof the device 332 with a top half of its housing removed. As will beexplained below, this embodiment of the fluid transfer device 332 isparticularly advantage in the context of the cooling system describedbelow. However, those of skill in the art will recognize that certainfeatures and advantages of this device 332 can be utilizes in otherindustrial and commercial applications in which it is advantageous toprovide one rotating fan with two separate inlet and outletcombinations.

With initial reference to FIGS. 13A, 13B and 14, the fluid transferdevice 332 can include a housing 352 which is formed into a rear andfront halves 354 a, 354 b. The housing 352 can be formed from of avariety of materials. For example, in one embodiment, each half 354 a,354 b is formed from a suitable plastic through a molding process. Eachhalf 354 a, 354 b can be preferably provided with correspondingconnection bosses 356 such that the halves 354 a, 354 b are joinedtogether using one or more fasteners (e.g., bolts, screws, pins, etc.).As will be explained below, the housing 352 can be configured to house acentrifugal or radial fan. The housing 352 can also be configured todefine various flow paths within the fluid transfer device 332.

With continued reference to FIGS. 13A-14, a front side 346 of thehousing 352 defines a generally circular inlet opening 358 (see alsoFIG. 15). However, in other embodiments, the opening 358 can comprise adifferent shape (e.g., elliptical, rectangular, etc.). As shown, aradial fan 361 can be positioned below the opening 358. In someembodiments, the radial fan 361 is configured substantially similar tothe embodiment described with reference to FIG. 6. Accordingly, the fan361 can include a series of radial fan blades 360 which extend from adisk-like base 364. It will be appreciated, however, that the fan 361can have an alternative configuration.

As illustrated in FIG. 13B, a motor 380 for rotating the fan 361 can bepositioned within a space defined beneath a hub 362 of the fan 361. Asshown, the hub 362 can define a boss 364 for supporting a shaft (notshown) upon which the hub 362 is mounted. The shaft, in turn, is rotatedby the motor 380, which is positioned generally beneath the hub 362.

With reference to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16A, theopening 358 is divided into two halves 359 a, 359 b by a splitter member382 (e.g., splitter wall). In the depicted embodiment, the top half 359a forms the inlet or cold side passage 322. As discussed and illustratedin FIG. 5, the inlet or cold side passage can be connected to there-circulation passage 320 described above with reference to FIG. 5. Thebottom half 359 b can define the hot side inlet passage 324, which isalso discussed above with reference to FIG. 5.

With reference to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 17, the fan 361 ispositioned within the housing 352 of the fluid transfer device 332. Thehousing 352 can be configured so that air entering the top half 359 a ofthe opening 358 is directed towards a cold side outlet space 394.Alternatively, air entering the bottom half 359 b of the opening 358 isdirected towards a hot side outlet space 396. The cold side outlet space394 communicates with the cold side outlet 306, and the hot side outletspace 396 communicates with hot side outlet 308. In some embodiments,the cold side outlet 306 and the hot side outlet 308 are associated withthe cold side heat exchanger 304 and the hot side heat exchangers 30,respectively, as described above and illustrated in FIG. 5.

In order to keep the cold side inlet passage separate from the hot sideinlet passage, a small clearance can be provided between the outside ofthe fan 362 and the inner portion of the adjacent housing 352. In FIGS.15, 16A and 16B, a tight clearance is provided in the radial directionon opposite sides of the fan 362 where the splitter wall 382 connects toor is in close proximity with the housing 352, near the areas designatedby circles 383 (FIGS. 16A and 16B). As illustrated in FIG. 16B, a tightclearance could also be provided in the axial direction, near the areadesignated by circle 384 (FIG. 16B). In some embodiments, the radialand/or axial clearance is approximately 1 mm. However, the clearance canbe greater or smaller, depending on the particular configuration.

With reference to FIGS. 15-17, in use, as the fan 361 rotates (e.g., inthe direction represented by arrow A in FIG. 17), air is drawn throughthe inlet opening 358 in a direction that is generally parallel to therotational axis of the fan 361 (e.g., a generally axial direction). Theair is then the drawn into the housing 352 and re-directed approximately90 degrees to a generally radial direction. Consequently, a portion ofthe air is then directed toward the cold side outlet 306 (as indicatedby arrow B) and the remaining air is directed as toward the hot sideoutlet 308 (as indicated by arrow C). In the illustrated embodiments,approximately half of the air is directed toward the cold side outlet306 and approximately half of the air is directed toward the hot sideoutlet 308. In other embodiments, however, the proportion of air goingto each outlet 306, 308 can be different.

The embodiment of the fluid transfer device 332 described aboveadvantageously provides a very compact arrangement of a fluid transferdevice that includes two inlets, each of which is in fluid communicationwith a different outlet. However, it will be appreciated that the fluidtransfer device 332 can be configured differently to provide more orfewer inlets and/or outlets. For example, in one embodiment, a partitionor splitter wall can be configured to create three or more portions.Such portions can be configured to be in fluid communication with adifferent outlet.

FIG. 18A is a cross-sectional schematic view of another embodiment of afluid transfer device 400 that defines two flow paths, each of which hasa separate inlet and outlet. Such a fluid transfer device 400 can beused in a cooling system similar to that described above with respect toFIG. 5.

With continued reference to FIG. 18A, a radial, axial or other type offan 402 is positioned within a housing 404. In the illustratedembodiment, the fan 400 includes a front and back set of blades 406, 408which are mounted onto a common disk 410. As shown, the common disk 410extends from a common hub 412, which is mounted to a shaft 414 that isrotated by a motor 416. The front and back portions of the fluidtransfer device 400 are provided with front and rear openings 422, 424,respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the front and rear openings422, 424 are associated with the front and back set of blades 406, 408,respectively. Thus, as the fan 402 rotates, air is drawn into thehousing 404 through the openings 422, 424. Air entering the housing 404is then directed into a radial direction (e.g., turned approximately 90degrees). The housing 404 is configured to maintain air within the frontand rear sides of the fan 402 substantially separated as it is directedto separate outlets.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 18A, air or other fluid can enterthe fluid transfer device 400 through the front (illustrated generallyby arrow 418 a) and/or the rear (depicted generally by arrow 418 b).

In some embodiments, a fluid transfer device, such as the oneillustrated in FIG. 18A, comprises two or more outlets which arehydraulically separated from each other. For example, as shown in FIGS.18B and 18C, the outlet portion 642 of the fluid transfer device 640includes two different outlets 644 a, 644 b, which can be separated by asplitter 648 or other member. In some embodiments, the splitter 648comprises a wall which is situated between the outlets 644 a, 644 b.However, in other embodiments, the splitter can be differentlyconfigured. As depicted in FIG. 18C, the outlets 644 a, 644 b have agenerally rectangular cross-sectional shape. However, the outlets canhave a different shape, size and/or general configuration. In addition,as discussed, a single fluid transfer device can comprise three or moredifferent outlets.

Various fan or blower configurations can be used in cooling systems totransfer air to and from a thermoelectric device. For example, FIG. 18Dillustrates a fan 602 a having a plurality of interior vanes or baffles604 a that act to more evenly distribute the air flow at the outlet 606b. FIG. 18D also includes a schematic representation of an air flowdistribution pattern 608 a according to one embodiment. It will beappreciated that the distribution pattern 608 a can be varied as desiredor required by a particular application. One or more features of the fan602 a, including its size, shape and dimensions, the number, shape, sizeand position of the vanes or baffles 604 a and the like can be alteredto provide a different flow distribution at the fan outlet 606 a.

FIG. 18E illustrates an axial fan 602 b that can be configured totransfer air to and past a thermoelectric device. It will be appreciatedthat one or more other fan designs and configurations can be used withina particular cooling system.

FIG. 18F is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of a coolingsystem 612 that can be used to cool (or heat) a container 610. In thedepicted embodiment, two thermoelectric devices 624 a, 624 b arethermally coupled to a container 610. As discussed, the thermoelectricdevices 624 a, 624 b comprise a cold side and a hot side. In oneembodiment, the cold sides of the devices are placed into conductivecontact with the container 610. The hot side of each thermoelectricdevice 624 a, 624 b, in turn, is placed into conductive contact with aheat sink/exchanger 628 a, 628 b. The heat sink/exchangers 628 cancomprise one or more convention elements (e.g., fins), which areconfigured to remove and/or transfer heat through convention.

With continued reference to FIG. 18F, the cooling system 612 includes adual outlet fan 616 which is configured to simultaneously deliver airpast each of the heat sink/exchangers 628 a, 628 b. In otherembodiments, a single fan can be configured to deliver air to two ormore thermoelectric devices located on different containers. It will beappreciated that the number of thermoelectric devices, fans and/or othercomponents of the cooling system 612 can be different than illustratedin FIG. 18F.

Beverage Container

In addition, one or more of the features and aspects of the embodimentsdescribed above can be used in combination with an open cavity (e.g.,cup holder, other container, etc.) configured to hold a beveragecontainer (cup, can, bottle, etc.). Such cavities or containers aresometimes referred to as cup holders in this application. FIGS. 19A and19B are top and cross-sectional views, respectively, of one embodimentof a cup holder 500 having certain features and advantages according tothe present invention.

With reference to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 19A and 19B, thecup holder 500 includes a body 502 that defines a cavity 504 with anopen, upper end or opening 506. The body 502 can be formed from aninsulating material (e.g., foam, etc.). As illustrated, a layer or liner508 (e.g., a plastic liner) can be positioned along the inner surface ofthe cavity 504. In FIG. 19B, a beverage container 510 has been insertedthrough the open end 506 of the cup holder 500. In some preferredembodiments, the opening 506 comprises one or more sealing members 512.Such sealing members 512 can be configured to provide a seal between thebeverage container 510 and the upper opening 506. Preferably, thesealing member 512 is configured to provide a substantial seal aroundbeverage containers placed within the cup holder 500 regardless of thesize (e.g., diameter) of the beverage container.

In some embodiments, the sealing member 512 comprises a series ofbrushes or bristles that extend radially inwardly from the open end 506,near the upper portion of the cup holder 500. As shown in FIG. 19B-19D,the bristles can deform to substantially form a seal around the beveragecontainer 510.

With continued reference to FIG. 19B, the cup holder 500 can include anside inlet 516 into the cavity 504 and a side outlet 518. In theillustrated embodiment, the inlet and outlet 516, 518 are positioned ongenerally opposite sides of the cavity 504. However, in otherarrangements, the inlet and outlet 516, 518 can have a differentorientation with respect to each other and/or other cup holdercomponents. In other embodiments, the cup holder 500 includes two ormore inlets and/or outlets.

The inlet 516 can receive cooled air from a cooling system that can bearranged as described above. In turn, the outlet 518 can be configuredto serve as an exhaust for the cooling air. Alternatively, the outlet518 can be in fluid communication with a recirculation passage 320, asdescribed above with reference to FIG. 5.

Thus, cooled air can be directed into the cavity 504 of a cup holder 500and cool (or heat) a beverage container (e.g., cup, can, bottle, etc.)and its contents stored therein. As discussed, the sealing members 512can help prevent the undesirable escape of cooled air which enters thecavity 504 through the inlet 516.

In modified embodiments, the sealing member 512 can have variety ofdifferent shapes, sizes, configurations and other characteristics. Forexample, in one embodiment, the sealing member 512 can comprise anannular flange made out of a deformable or flexible material (e.g.,rubber). In another embodiment, the annular flange can include notchesto promote movement of the flange as the container 510 is moved into andout of the opening 506.

In other embodiments, the cup holder 500 includes one or more conductionelements 22 as described above with reference to FIG. 1. The conductionelements 22 can be placed along the interior of the cavity 504 and canbe conductively coupled to a cold side of a thermoelectric device asdescribed above. Thus, cooling of a container, and thus a beverage orother foodstuff contained therein, can be cooled (or heated) usingconduction rather than convection. In other embodiments, a cup holdercan comprise both conductive and convective type cooling/heatingelements.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 19D, a series of brushes orbristles 512 c that extend radially inwardly from the open end 506 c ofthe cup holder 500 c help to form a seal around the beverage container510 (e.g. can, bottle, cup, etc.). As indicated by arrows 511 a, 511 b,air cooled by convection, as described in the various embodimentsherein, can be passed along the outer surface of the container 510 tocool it. Cooled air can be injected at one end of the container 510 andremoved from an opposite end. In other embodiments, the entry and exitlocations of the cooled air may be different. In addition, such anarrangement can be used with warm air being passed along the outersurface of a container 510 to maintain the container 510 at a highertemperature (e.g., above ambient).

With continued reference to FIG. 19D, the brushes or bristles 512 c canbe configured to deflect downward when the container 510 is insertedinto the cup holder 500 c. Thus, the brushes or bristles 512 c can beresilient so as to return to a resting position, such as thatillustrated in FIG. 19C, when a container 510 is not situated within thecup holder cavity. In some embodiments, the brushes or bristles 512 care arranged uniformly around the interior space of the cup holder 500 cto snugly retain the container 510. The brushes or bristles 512 c can bemanufactured from one or more materials, such as, for example, metals,thermoplastics, foams, rubbers, other synthetic materials and/or thelike.

FIGS. 20A and 20B illustrate another embodiment of a cup holder 500 dconfigured to retain a container 510 (e.g., cup, can, bottle, etc.)within its inner cavity 506 d. The depicted cup holder 500 d includes adeformable ring 514 d along its upper opening 506 d. In someembodiments, the deformable ring 514 d is manufactured from foam,rubber, flexible thermoplastic or other resilient material. In addition,the ring 514 d can be continuously or intermittently disposed around theopening 506 d of the cup holder 500 d. Regardless of its exactconfiguration, the deformable ring 514 d can help securely maintain acontainer 510 within the cup holder cavity, as shown in FIG. 20B. Theuse of bristles or deformable rings 541 d permits the cup holder 500 dto be used for containers of different diameters and other outerdimensions. Thus, cup holders comprising bristles, deformable rings orother deformable sealing members can accommodate beverage containers ofvarying shape, size and other dimensional characteristics.

With reference to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 21A, a deformablering 514 e includes a plurality of radial slits 515 that begin at itsinterior diameter and extend outwardly toward its outer diameter. Theslits 515 can help alleviate hoop tension in the ring 514 e when acontainer is positioned within the cup holder 500 e. Thus, the shape ofthe deformable ring 514 e can more easily adjust to the outer diameteror other dimension of a beverage container (e.g., cup, can, bottle,etc.).

As shown in the top view of FIG. 21B, when a container 510 (e.g., can)is positioned within a cup holder having such a deformable ring 514 ewith radial slits 515, the slits 515 can move relative to one another.In the illustrated embodiment, the deformed slits form triangular orU-shaped openings when viewed from the top. However, depending on howthe deformable ring 514 e and/or its slits 515 are configured, theopenings can have a different shape (e.g., circular, wedge, etc.).Further, the number, radial extent, the shape and other characteristicsof slits 515 can be different than illustrated and discussed herein.

In order to help reduce the size of openings in the deformable ring orsimilar member, when a container is positioned within the cup holder,overlapping resilient (e.g., foam, rubber, thermoplastic, etc.) piecescan be used, as illustrated in FIG. 22A. Openings, such as thoseillustrated in FIG. 21B may permit cooled air to undesirably escape fromthe interior of the cup holder cavity. Thus, overlapping resilientpieces 662 can provide a way of eliminating or reducing the size ofopenings in a deformable ring or other sealing member. In theillustrated embodiment, the overlapping pieces 662 are configured tomove relative to one another as a container is inserted or removed fromthe cup holder.

In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 22A, the overlap betweenadjacent overlapping resilient pieces 662 remains approximately constantin the radial direction from the center of the cup holder. However, inother embodiments, such as the one depicted in FIGS. 22B-22D, theoverlap between adjacent overlapping resilient pieces 662, 662 b variesdepending on the radial distance of the overlapping pieces relative tothe container. In FIG. 22B, the overlap between adjacent overlappingpieces 662 a, 662 b generally decreases toward the center of the cupholder cavity. This is caused by the greater vertical displacement ofthe resilient ring near the center of the cup holder.

In other embodiments, more or fewer overlapping pieces are used to helpseal the cavity of a cup holder. Some or all of the overlapping piecescan be resilient. Alternatively, some of all of the overlapping piecescan be semi-rigid or rigid. It will be appreciated that the shape, size,dimensions, configuration and/or other characteristics of theoverlapping pieces can vary.

It may be desirable to maximize or increase the contact between theouter portion of a container and the interior surface of the cup holderin which the container is positioned, especially if the container iscooled by conductive contact. For instance, as illustrated in FIG. 23A,a cup holders 680 is typically configured so that a beverage container510 (e.g., cup, can, bottle, etc.) primarily contacts a bottom surfaceof the cup holder cavity 682. However, some embodiments includethermoelectric devices along one or more the sidewalls of the cup holderand rely primarily on conduction to transmit or remove heat from abeverage container positioned within the cup holder. In sucharrangements, the heat transfer (e.g., cooling or heating) of a beveragecontainer can be improved by urging the container toward the sidewalls.In FIG. 23B, for example, a thermoelectric device 694 is positionedalong the sidewall portion 692 of a cup holder 690 and is used toconductively cool the side walls of the cup holder 690. Thus, in orderto enhance heat transfer between the beverage container and anthermoelectric device, it can be desirable to include one or moremethods of urging a beverage container positioned within a cup holdertoward the sidewall portion of the cup holder.

In some embodiments, the contact between a beverage container (e.g.,cup, can, bottle, etc.) and an inside sidewall of a cup holder can beaccomplished using various spring-type devices. For example, in FIG.24A, the cup holder 700 a includes a spring 704 a along one or moreportions of its sidewall that extends into the cup holder cavity 702 a.The spring 704 a, which can be constructed of metal, plastic or anyother resilient material, can be configured to impose a lateral forceagainst a beverage container (not shown) positioned within the cupholder cavity 702 a. Consequently, the container is urged into contactwith a sidewall to which one or more thermoelectric devices (not shown)can be conductively coupled. In FIG. 24A, the spring 704 a or otherbiasing member can be attached to one or more locations of the cupholder 700 a (e.g., above and/or below the opening in the cup holdersidewall).

FIG. 24B illustrates a spring 704 b that is connected to the cup holdersidewall using a hinge 708. The hinge 708 is preferably configured topermit the spring 704 b to move relative to the sidewall of the cupholder 700 b. In such embodiments, the hinge 708 may permit the spring704 b to move closer towards the center of the cup holder cavity 702 b.Thus, this may facilitate contact between a beverage container (e.g.,cup, can, bottle, etc.) and the cup holder sidewalls, even for smallercontainers. Alternatively, the hinge 708 can be used to increase and/ordecrease the lateral force exerted upon a container.

With reference to FIG. 24C, a coil spring 710 can be used to connect aresilient member 704 c to the cup holder sidewall. Like with the hingearrangement discussed above, the coil spring 710 is preferablyconfigured to maintain the resilient member 704 c toward the middle ofthe cup holder cavity 702 c. When a beverage container is inserted intothe cup holder 700 c, the resilient member 704 c is displaced outwardly(e.g., toward the cup holder sidewall). Consequently, like with similarembodiments discussed herein, the coil spring 710 can exert a lateralforce on an adjacent beverage container (e.g., cup, can, bottle, etc.),urging the beverage container into contact with the opposite sidewall ofthe cup holder 700 c.

In some embodiments, a cup holder can be configured to automaticallyadjust to the varying diameters (or other transverse or outsidedimension) and/or shape (e.g., cup draft angle) of different beveragecontainers by using one or more adjustable bladder members. In someembodiments, bladder members or other expandable members are used tomaintain a beverage container within the cavity of a cup holder. Inaddition, such bladder members can be used to seal the inside cavity ofthe cup holder to more effectively cool (or heat) a beverage placedtherein. The bladder member or other expandable members can be inflatedand/or deflated pneumatically. For example, a small blower, air pump orcompressor can be used to inflate the bladder member. One or more valvesor other items can also be used to regulate air or other fluid flow intoand out of the bladder member.

The cross-sectional view of FIG. 25 illustrates a cup holder 712 havinga bladder member 716 along an interior portion of the cup holder cavity714. In the depicted embodiment, the bladder member 716 has a generallyannular shape that surrounds the interior wall of the cup holder cavity.However, as discussed in greater detail below, bladder members can havea different shape, size, configuration and/or other characteristics.

With reference to FIG. 26A, the bladder member 730 includes an internalcavity 732. As shown, the bladder member 730 is adjacent to the insidesidewall of the cup holder 720. In some embodiments, the bladder member730 can be attached to the sidewall using one or more connectionsmethods. For example, the bladder member 730 can be attached to the cupholder 720 using an adhesive, fastener and/or other connection method.The bladder member 730 is preferably constructed of a durable, resilientmaterial, such as, for example, rubber, flexible plastic, otherelastomer or the like. The bladder member 730 can comprise one or moreexterior covers for protection of the resilient member, for decorativepurposes and/or the like. For example, in one embodiment, a durablefabric can be joined to the outside of the bladder member 730.

FIG. 26B illustrates the cup holder 720 of FIG. 26A with the bladdermember 730 in an expanded state. The bladder member 730 can be expandedso that it moves toward the center of the cup holder cavity 712 byinjecting air into the bladder member's internal cavity 732. The pump,compressor or device used to inject air or other fluid into the bladdermember 730 can be activated and deactivated electrically, pneumaticallyor using any other method. As shown in FIG. 26B, expansion of thebladder member 730 can cause the bladder member 730 to contact theexterior portion of a container 510 (e.g., beverage cup, can, bottle,etc.) positioned within the cup holder 720. The continued expansion ofthe bladder member 730 urges the container 510 against a cup holdersidewall for improved thermal contact between the container 510 and thesidewall.

Since such bladder members 730 comprise internal cavities which arecapable of being expanded and deflated, the bladder members can includeone or more fluid passages that are configured to direct fluid (e.g.,air) into and/or out of the internal cavity. In some embodiments, fluidpassages are in fluid communication with a compressed fluid source forrelative quick expansion of the bladder member. Further, the fluidpassages can include one or more valves that facilitate the expansionand deflation of the bladder member.

As illustrated in the top views of FIGS. 27A-27C, the bladder member cantake various forms. For example, in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 27A,the bladder member 730 a is shaped as an annular ring. Thus, in itsexpanded shape, the bladder member 730 a can move to occupy asubstantial majority of the cup holder cavity. Alternatively, thebladder member 730 a may be attached at various locations along theinterior circumference of the cup holder cavity. Thus, as the bladdermember 730 a is expanded, it maintains a beverage container (not shown)positioned within the cup holder 720 a toward the center of the cupholder cavity.

FIG. 27B illustrates a cup holder 720 b comprising a total of 4 smallerbladder members 730 b, equally spaced (at 90 degree intervals) aroundthe cavity of the cup holder. In other embodiments, the cup holder 720 bincludes fewer or more bladder members 730 b, as needed or required by aparticular application.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 27C, the cup holder 720 c includes asingle bladder member 730 c which, as shown, is positioned along oneside of the cup holder cavity. Thus, as the bladder member 730 c isexpanded, it will effectively decrease the volume of the cup holdercavity. A beverage container (not shown) situated within the cavity willbe urged towards the opposite end of the bladder member 730 c as thebladder member 730 c is expanded.

With reference to FIGS. 28A and 28B, a bladder member 760 can bepositioned along the upper portion of the cup holder cavity 752. Asshown, the bladder member 760 has a generally annular shape. Therefore,the bladder member 760 is configured to continuously surround a beveragecontainer 510 which is positioned within the cup holder cavity 752. Inthe illustrated embodiment, in order to cool the container 510, thebladder member 760 is expanded (e.g., inflated) so that the bladdermember 760 contacts an exterior surface of the container 510 (FIG. 28B).Preferably, the expanded bladder member 760 is configured tosubstantially seal a portion of the cup holder cavity 752. Conditionedfluid (e.g., cooled or heated air) can then be delivered into the sealedor substantially sealed cavity 752 of the cup holder 750 through one ormore inlets 754. The cooled air moves around the exterior of thecontainer 510, as indicated by the arrows, and exits through one or moreoutlets 756. The temporary seal formed between the container 510 and theexpanded bladder member 760 prevents or limits the escape of cooled airfrom the cup holder cavity 752. Thus, the heat transfer efficiency ofthe cup holder 750 can be enhanced.

In other embodiments, the bladders described herein can be filled with ahighly compressible material (e.g., foam, gel etc.). In sucharrangements, the bladders can be configured to be in fluidcommunication with the appropriate fluid source. In addition, thebladders can comprise valves, pumps and other components or featuresthat facilitate their expansion and deflation.

In certain embodiments, a cup holder includes one or more sensors whichcan be used to detect the presence of a beverage container or other itemwithin the container's cavity. Such sensors can help control when thecup holder's cooling (or heating) features should be activated ordeactivated. In addition, in embodiments having one or more bladdermembers 760, sensors can be used to determine when such bladder membersshould be expanded to engage a portion of a container positioned withinthe cup holder cavity.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 29A, the cup holder 770 includes aresilient member 774 which protrudes into the cavity 772 of the cupholder 770. In this embodiment, the resilient member 774 includes alever 776 which is configured to move relative to a contact switch 777.Therefore, when a beverage container is positioned within the cup holder770, the resilient member 774, and thus, the lever 776 connectedthereto, move relative to the contact switch 777. The contact switch 777and the lever 776 are preferably configured so that even a slightmovement of the resilient member 774 away from its resting position withestablish a contact. However, the degree of relative movement betweenthe contact switch 777 and the lever 776 that will establish a contactcan be varied. In some embodiments, for example, the degree of relativemovement that will establish a contact can be adjusted by a user (e.g.,using a knob or other controller). Once the lever 776 contacts thecontact switch 777, the cup holder 770 is informed that a container hasbeen placed within it. The contact is broken when the container is fullyremoved from the cup holder cavity 772. Thus, when the contact betweenthe lever and the switch is broken, the cooling system can bedeactivated.

Automated methods of detecting the presence of a container within thecup holder cavity can be used to eliminate a manual switch thatactivates the heating or cooling function of the cup holder. In someembodiments, such methods is used in combination with a temperaturesensor, which can detect whether a container is “hot” or “cold”. Thesystem can then automatically determine whether the container should beheated or cooled. In other embodiments, a manual switch can be used inconjunction with one or more automated methods, allowing the operator tooverride the automated function of the temperature control features. Theterms “hot” and “cold” are relative terms whose values can vary. Forexample, in some embodiments, “hot” and “cold” are used to refer totemperatures that are above or below particular thresholds,respectively.

FIG. 30 illustrates another embodiment of a cup holder 800 configured tocool or heat a beverage container (e.g., cup, can, bottle, etc.) orother item placed therein. In the depicted embodiment, the cup holder800 includes a heat transfer block 804 which partly defines the interiorcavity 802 of the cup holder 800. A thermoelectric device 806 isconductively coupled to a portion of the heat transfer block 804 fortemperature control purposes. Therefore, the heat transfer block can beheated or cooled to control the temperature of the container. The “hot”side of the thermoelectric device 806 can be placed into conductivecontact with a heat sink/exchanger 808. The heat sink/exchanger 808 cancomprise one or more convention elements (e.g., fins) that areconfigured to remove and/or transfer heat through convention.

With continued reference to FIG. 30, the cup holder 800 includes one ormore other housing members 810 that form the cavity 802 into which abeverage container or other item can be placed. In some embodiments, thehousing members 810 are also connected to thermoelectric devices tofurther enhance the temperature control features of the cup holder 800.The housing members 810 can be constructed of plastic or any other rigidor semi-rigid materials.

In order to provide good thermal conductivity with a container, the heattransfer block 804 can be movable relative to one or more of the otherhousing members 810. In FIG. 31A, the heat transfer block 804 isattached to a spring member 816, which, when compressed, is configuredto exert a force on the heat transfer block 804 in the direction of thecup holder cavity 802. Such a spring-loaded heat transfer block 804 canbe configured to contact a beverage container that is situated withinthe cup holder 800.

FIG. 31B illustrates a similar spring system incorporated into thedesign of one of the housing members 810. As shown, the housing member810 is attached to a spring member 818 that urges the housing member 810toward a container positioned within the cup holder cavity 802. In otherembodiments, resilient members other than springs (e.g., pistons) areused to exert a force on the heat transfer block 804 and/or the housingmembers 810.

FIG. 32A illustrates a beverage container 510 (e.g., cup, soda can,etc.) being inserted within the cavity 802 of the cup holder 800. In thedepicted embodiment, in order for the container 510 to be positionedwithin the cavity 802, the heat transfer block 804 and/or one or morehousing members 810 may need to move away from the container 510. Thespring members, as discussed above, can be configured to permit the heattransfer block 804 and the housing members 810 to move relative to eachother so as to permit the container 510 to be securely positioned withinthe cup holder cavity 802. Thus, good thermal contact can be maintainedbetween the heat transfer block 804 and an adjacent surface of thecontainer 510. Further, cup holders which include a spring-loaded heattransfer block and other housing members can accommodate a wider rangeof container types, sizes, shapes and configurations.

As illustrated in FIGS. 32B and 32C, the spring members 816, 818effectively acting on a container 510 may cause rotation of the heattransfer block 804 and/or the housing members 810. Thus, in theembodiment depicted in FIG. 32C, one or more spring-loaded housingmembers 810 is used to balance the forces exerted on a beveragecontainer by a spring-loaded heat transfer block. This can helpeliminate unwanted moments and/or forces on a container 510 that,otherwise, may cause it to overturn.

Alternatively, the housing members 810 can be provided with a desiredangle in the vertical direction in order to counter the moment generatedby a spring-loaded heat transfer block 804. Such an angle can betteraccommodate a beverage container which has a draft angle or othernon-vertical surface features. In one embodiment, the contact surface ofa housing member 510 is shaped (e.g., angled) to substantially match theaverage angle for typical cup designs. In other arrangements, the angleof the housing members 510 may be self-adjusting or adjustable by a userto accommodate different container types, shapes, size andconfigurations.

Although the above embodiments have been described with the use ofspring members, other types of resilient members may also be used,either in lieu of or in addition to springs. For example, helicalsprings, foam springs or other foam padding that provides the desiredresiliency, flat springs and the like.

In other embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 32D, the position of theheat transfer block 804 is connected to a pivot member 820, which allowsthe heat transfer block 804 to rotate as a beverage container 510 (e.g.,cup, can, bottle, etc.) is inserted and/or removed from the cup holdercavity. In addition, the rotation of the heat transfer block 804 canfurther improve contact (e.g., increase the contact surface area)between the heat transfer block 804 and the adjacent container 510.

With reference to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 32E, the heattransfer block 804 is configured with an angle relative to vertical (θ)to facilitate receipt of the container 510 within the cup holder cavity.As shown, the angled heat transfer block 804 provides a larger effectiveopening at the top of the cup holder cavity. Although not depicted inFIG. 32E, similar countered or angled housing members can be providedopposite and/or adjacent to the heat transfer block 804. Thus, as abeverage container 510 is lowered into the cup holder cavity, the heattransfer block 804 and/or one or more housing members can rotate tobetter match the outer shape of the container 510. As discussed above,such rotation can be accomplished using a spring member, pivot member,other resilient member or the like. As a result, contact between theheat transfer block and the container is improved, and the beveragecontainer can be cooled (or heated) more effectively.

In some of the above embodiments, the heat transfer block translatesand/or rotates in response to a container being placed in or removedfrom the cup holder. Consequently, the thermoelectric device and heatexchanger (e.g., fins) attached to the heat transfer block alsotranslate and/or rotate accordingly. Thus, flexible air ducts can beused to connect one or more fans or blower to the heat exchangers.Alternatively, each assembly comprising a heat transfer block,thermoelectric device and heat exchanger can include its own blower thatmoves with the assembly.

As mentioned above, a temperature-controlled cup holder can beconfigured to automatically detect whether the container should becooled or heated. For example, the cup holder can include one or moretemperature sensors along an interior portion of the cup holder cavity.The temperature sensors can be constantly activated. Alternatively, thesensors can remain inactive until a container is inserted into cupholder. In such arrangements, the cup holder can also comprise one ormore other sensors (e.g., as in the embodiments described above) thatdetermine whether a container has been situated within the cup holdercavity 842, such as, for example, weight sensors, lever, contact switch,IR beam or the like. FIG. 33 illustrates a cup holder 840 comprising atotal of three temperature sensors 846. The temperature sensors 846 canbe positioned at any cup holder location, such as, for example, theinterior wall of the cavity (as illustrated in FIG. 33), along the upperportion (e.g., rim) of the cup holder or the like. In some embodiments,temperature sensors 846 are desirably positioned along two or moreportions of the cup holder 840 to allow temperature detection forcontainers of different types, shapes and sizes. In the embodimentdepicted in FIG. 33, two temperature sensors 846 are positioned alongthe interior wall of the cup holder cavity 842, and the thirdtemperature sensor 846 is positioned along the bottom of the cup holdercavity 842. However, in other embodiments, a cup holder can have more orfewer temperature sensors than illustrated in FIG. 33.

With continued reference to FIG. 33, one or more temperature sensors 848can be positioned on a member 847 which extends into the interiorportion of the cup holder cavity 842. For example, as discussed belowwith reference to other embodiments, the temperature sensor 848 can besituated on a spring, coil or other resilient member. Positioning thetemperature on such an extending member 847 can increase the likelihoodof adequate contact between the sensor 848 and a beverage container (notshown) positioned within the cup holder cavity 842, especially if theshape, size and general configuration of the container does not coincidewith the internal surface of the cup holder cavity 842. For example,such a sensor 848 may be desirable if odd-shaped bottles (e.g., plasticcontainers for carbonated beverages, contoured bottles, etc.) are placedwithin the cup holder 840.

If the temperature sensors 846 detect a temperature change (e.g., higheror lower than ambient), the cooling (or heating) features of the cupholder 840 can be activated. For example, if a warm/hot disposablecoffee cup is inserted into the cup holder, one or more temperaturessensors 846 will desirably detect a rise in temperature. Consequently,the temperature sensors 846 can signal to activate one or morethermoelectric devices to maintain the coffee cup and its contents at adesired heated temperature. If the cup or other beverage container issubsequently removed from the cup holder, the temperature drop can alertthe sensors to deactivate the appropriate thermoelectric devices.

Likewise, the temperature sensors can be configured to activate one ormore thermoelectric devices (and/or the associated fluid transferdevices) upon detecting the presence of a cooled or chilled container inthe cup holder. For example, if a paper cup, aluminum can, plasticbottle or the like contains a cooled beverage or other food item, thetemperature sensors can activate one or more thermoelectric devices thatwill provide a cooling effect to the cup holder.

As discussed, the temperature sensors can be configured to activate ordeactivate a thermoelectric device when a sudden temperature change isdetected. In alternative embodiments, activation or deactivation of thesensors occurs as a result of the sensors detecting temperatures aboveor below particular threshold levels. Further, the thermoelectricdevices can be activated or deactivated based on one or more othersensors, such as, for example, weight sensors, IR beam detectors and thelike. In other embodiments, a user is allowed to select the manner inwhich the thermoelectric devices, and thus the heating and/or coolingfeatures, are activated and/or deactivated. By being configured toactivate and/or deactivate the thermoelectric devices or other heatingor cooling members, the temperature sensors can be used to ensure that acontainer is not overly heated or cooled.

To accommodate the preferences of different users, a cup holder canoperate at different temperature settings. For example, based on thetemperature detected by the sensors, the cup holder can operate at a“Very Hot,” “Hot” or “Lukewarm” setting. It will be appreciated thatmore or fewer settings can be provided. Similar levels can be providedwith respect to the cooling of containers. Alternatively, the user canmanually select such a desired temperature setting (e.g., via a specifictemperature setting on a dial).

In one embodiment, after a user places a container in the cup holder,the temperature sensors, based on the temperature or the resultingtemperature change, determine whether the container should be cooled orheated. This can cause one or more thermoelectric devices to activateand/or deactivate. Further, an indicator light or other display can betriggered to alert the user of the operational mode of the cup holder.For example, if the cup holder begins heating the container, a red lightcould appear. Alternatively, if the cup holder begins cooling thecontainer, a blue light could appear. In other embodiments, other waysof indicating such information to the user are provided. For example, anaudible, text or an other sensory alert can be used.

If a user notices that the controller is not operating under the desiredmode (e.g., cooling, heating, etc.), he or she can override theautomatic mode selection by pressing a button, manipulating a knob orswitch or the like. Alternatively, in some embodiments, a user canswitch operational modes (e.g., heating to cooling, cooling to heating,etc.) by removing and reinserting the container into the cup holdercavity. In other embodiments, a user can switch modes by simply pressinga button. It will be appreciated that other ways of selecting theoperational mode of the temperature controlled cup holder can be used.

In other embodiments, through the use of one or more sensors (e.g.,temperature sensors, contact sensors, weight sensors, etc.), a cupholder can select the desired operational mode based on previousoperational information or trends. For example, if the cup holder isconfigured to detect the general shape of the beverage container placedwithin its cavity, the cup holder can automatically select the sameoperational mode used the previous time such a beverage container wasplaced in the cup holder. Thus, in some embodiments, the selectedoperational mode depends on the exterior shape of the beveragecontainer. In other embodiments, the operational mode can be selectedbased on one or more other factors, such as, for example, the exteriortemperature of the container, the weight of the container and the like.Therefore, if the cup holder detects a container having a particulartemperature, shape, weight and/or one or more other properties, it canbe configured to mimic the operational mode used for such container inthe past.

In other embodiments, a micro-switch or some other beverage/food sensingdevice can be used, either in lieu of or in addition to, the use ofother types of switches.

Depending on the size or shape of the particular container placed in thecup holder cavity, it may be difficult to provide a desired level ofconductive cooling or heating. For example, FIG. 34A illustrates anembodiment of a container 510 having angled sides and a bottom recessedarea from which the container contents are excluded. In sucharrangements, the conductive heating/cooling of the depicted container510 can be difficult as contact between the container 510 and theinterior surfaces of the cup holder 860 are limited. Thus, in oneembodiment, the container 510 is conductively cooled and/or heated bytilting the container as indicated in FIG. 34A. Consequently, improvedcontact between the beverage container 510 and the cup holder 860 occursalong the portion of the interior wall designated as 864.

In order to bring such a container 510 into contact with a side wall orother surface of the cup holder, the cup holder can include a tiltingmember or similar device. With reference to FIG. 34B, the tilting member866 is configured to articulate between a resting position 868 a (shownin phantom) and an extended position 868 b to provide improved contactbetween the container (not shown) and one or more interior surfaces ofthe cup holder 860. The tilting member 866 can be activated to extend tothe second position 868 b if it is determined that the container doesnot contact the tilting member 866 upon placement in the cup holdercavity. Other ways of detecting such limited contact can also be used toextend the tilting member 866. For example, one or more contact sensors(not shown) positioned along the inner surface of the cup holder cavity862 can determine that additional conductive contact is needed.

In some embodiments, the tilting member 868 includes a flat spring orother metal (e.g., steel), plastic or other resilient or non-resilientmaterials. For a more efficient tipping motion, the distance 870 betweenthe leading edge of the tipping member 866 (at its extended position)and the bottom surface of the cup holder cavity 862 can be relativelysmall, as indicated in FIG. 34B. However, for certain types ofcontainers, such as, for example, rounded bottles, it may be desirablefor distance 870 to be greater or smaller than indicated in FIG. 34B.This can help ensure that the tilting member will contact the containeralong a substantially vertical portion of the container.

The tilting member and the other components of the cup holder can beconfigured to prevent damage to the container, such as, for example,collapsing, puncturing, cracking, denting, buckling or the like. Thus,in one embodiment, the tilting member can contact the container (e.g.,coffee cup) at approximately 30 mm from the bottom of the container. Inother embodiments, depending on the type of beverage container or otheritem to be placed in the cup holder cavity, this distance can be smalleror greater than 30 mm.

Further, as discussed in greater detail herein, to ensure that thecontainer is not damaged by the tilting member, the contacting portionof the tilting member can be curved or otherwise shaped to reduce pointloads on a beverage container (e.g., cup, can, bottle, etc.).

With reference to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 35, the resilientmember 884 is attached to an inside surface of the cup holder cavity882. The resilient member 884 (e.g., cantilever spring) can be a metalor plastic spring or any other device. In FIG. 35, the resilient member884 has a generally rounded (e.g., circular, concave, bowed, etc.) outersurface that extends toward the center of the cup holder cavity 882.While in its rested position (as illustrated by phantom line 886 a), theresilient member 884 extends far enough into the cup holder cavity 882so that it contacts at least a portion of a container 510 insertedtherein. As the container 510 is fully inserted into the cavity 882 ofthe cup holder 880, the resilient member 884 is moved away from thecontainer 510. Consequently, a resiliency of the member 884 creates alateral force against the container 510, urging the container 510 intocontact with an opposite interior wall of the cup holder 880.

Similarly, as illustrated in the embodiment of FIG. 36A, a coiled spring894 can be used to create the same resilient force on the container 510to bring it into conductive contact with an interior wall of the cupholder 890. Additional embodiments using a coiled spring 894 areillustrated in FIGS. 36B and 36C. Use of a coiled spring having aconstant radius desirably provides a constant force to deflection curve.However, it will be appreciated that springs that do not provide aconstant force to deflection curve can also be used.

In FIG. 36B, a portion of the cup holder wall comprises a flexiblemember 904 (e.g., rubber or elastomeric patch) or other non-rigid area.In the depicted embodiment, the rubber member 904 is configured to moveinwards, towards the interior of the cup holder cavity 902, upon theapplication of an external force. For example, a coiled spring 894 canbe positioned adjacent to the flexible member 904 so that it urges theflexible member 904 into the interior cavity 902 of the cup holder 900.In some arrangements, bellows 906 or other stretchable members can bepositioned around the rubber member 904 to facilitate movement of therubber member 904 relative to the remaining portion of the cup holder900. Insertion of a container (not shown) into the cavity 902 forces therubber member 904, the bellows 906 and the coiled spring 894 in adirection generally away from the container. As discussed above withreference to FIGS. 35 and 36A, the resilient force created by the coiledspring 894 can help urge the container into contact with an oppositeportion of the cup holder cavity to facilitate with conductive heattransfer.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 36C, a similar effect isaccomplished by replacing the rubber member with a hinged lever 914,gate or the like. In some of the embodiments discussed above, a springor other resilient member desirably provides a force on the beveragecontainer that is substantially constant, regardless of the extent towhich such spring or other resilient member protruding within the cupholder cavity is deflected. However, in other embodiments, the forceexerted by a resilient member on a beverage container can vary accordingto its deflection.

One concern with using a resilient or pushing member to urge thecontainer into conductive contact with the cup holder includes thepossibility of damaging (e.g., collapsing, puncturing, cracking,denting, buckling, etc.) the container. Such damage is likely when thepushing force generated by the resilient member is excessively large. Inaddition, the container may be damaged a mismatch exists between thecurvature of the container and the curvature of the portion of theresilient member that contacts the container. One embodiment of such amismatch is illustrated in FIGS. 37A and 37B. As shown, the leading edge925 of the pusher 924 is substantially flat, while the container 510 hasa generally rounded, cylindrical body. Thus, such a configuration cancreate undesirable concentrated point forces where the pusher 924contacts the container 510.

With reference to FIG. 38, the pusher 934 can be advantageously shapedto substantially match the shape of a container 510. In the illustratedembodiment, the pusher 934 includes a generally curved leading edge 935which has a diameter approximately equal to that of the container 510placed in the cup holder 930. The diameter of the leading edge 935 ofthe pusher may be larger or smaller than the diameter of the adjacentcontainer surface.

In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 39A-39D, the tip or leadingedge of the pusher 946, 956 advantageously includes a deformable tip948, 958 that is configured to generally conform to the outer shape ofthe adjacent container 510, thereby helping to avoid point stresses onthe container 510. In addition, the deformable tip 948, 958 of thepusher 946, 956 can be configured to change shape as a container 510 isbeing moved relative to the cup holder cavity. The deformable tip can beattached to the pusher 946, 956 using one or more connection methods,such as, for example, using adhesives, fasteners, etc. In otherembodiments, the deformable tip 948, 958 is molded or otherwise formedso that it forms a unitary member with the pusher. The deformable tip948, 958 can be manufactured from one or more flexible or malleablematerials, such as, for example, rubber, soft thermoplastics,elastomers, silicone, gel and/or the like.

With reference to FIG. 40, the pusher tip 958 is illustrated indifferent positions according to the extent to which it is deflected byan adjacent container. As shown, the effective diameter of the tip 958can change as the position of the pusher changes. Therefore, as thediameter of a container increases, the effective diameter of the tipalso increases (shown left to right in the illustrated chart). Thus, theuse of a deformable tip at the leading edge of a pusher, as discussedabove, can further ensure that a beverage container will not be damagedwhen positioned within a cup holder cavity.

In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 41A and 41B, the pusher 964is configured to lie generally flat when fully deflected by a container510. This can be desirable when attempting to place a relatively largediameter container within the cup holder. As shown in FIG. 41B, theclearance between the outside of the container 510 and the interiorwalls of the cup container cavity is relatively tight.

In some embodiments, the cup holder is configured to accommodatebeverage containers which have an uneven exterior shape or one or moreother unique features or characteristics. For example, in FIG. 42, thecup holder 970 includes a pusher 974 that can be configured to clearmost or all steps 976 or other contours that may be present along theexterior surface of a container 510. If the pusher 974 in FIG. 42 werepermitted to engage the container 510 (e.g., plastic bottle) above thestep 976, the user may encounter problems removing the container fromthe cup holder cavity. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the pusher974 is positioned at a sufficiently low location to prevent suchundesirable “catching.”

In one embodiment, the pusher 974 is positioned so that its leading edgeengages the container to more than 40 mm from the bottom of thecontainer. It will be appreciated that such distances may be greater orsmaller to accommodate changes in container technology. In someembodiments, the pusher 974 is configured to move (e.g., slide) up anddown along an interior cavity wall. This allows a user to adjust thepusher 974 according to the type of beverage container 510 that will beplaced within the cup holder. In other arrangements, the cup holder,using one or more sensor as described herein, can detect the type ofbeverage container and automatically adjust the vertical position of thepusher 974. The pusher can be adjusted using a motor or some other typeof mechanical device.

In some embodiments, a roller pusher 984 is used to urge a container 510into conductive contact with an interior wall of the cup holder 980.With reference to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 43A-43E, a rollerpusher 984 includes a curved surface 986 which is configured to engagean outer portion of the container 510. Further, the roller pusher 984can be configured to rotate about an axis 987 to facilitate movement ofthe pusher 984 relative to an adjacent container 510, especially whenthe container 510 is being inserted into or removed from the cup holdercavity. In addition, as with other embodiments discussed herein, thecurved outer surface 986 of the roller pusher 984 helps preventconcentrated loading on the sides of the container 510. This can avoidor minimize buckling, denting, puncturing and/or other damage to thecontainer 510.

With reference to FIG. 43C-43E, the roller pusher (not shown) can bepositioned on a specially designed receiver member 990 that includesopenings 994 for the roller pusher. In the illustrated embodiment, a pin985 (FIGS. 43A and 43B) which coincides with axis 987 is shaped, sizedand otherwise configured to be placed within the corresponding openings994 of the specially designed receiver member 990. Preferably, asufficient clearance between the inner diameter of the openings 994 andthe outer diameter of the pin 985 exists to permit the roller pusher 984to rotate relative to the receiver member 990. This can facilitate withthe positioning of a beverage container into and/or out of the cupholder cavity. It will be appreciated that a roller pusher 984 can havea different shape than illustrated herein. In addition, the method theroller pusher 984 connects to the receiver member 990 can also bedifferent.

FIGS. 44A-44C illustrate three different embodiments of a cantilevertype pusher 1050 a, 1050 b, 1050 c used to urge a container (not shown)into conductive contact with an interior portion of the cup holdercavity. As shown, the pushers 1050 a, 1050 b, 1050 c can have any shape,such as for example, generally triangular (FIG. 44B) or generallytrapezoidal or rectangular (FIGS. 44A and 44C). One or more factors canbe considered in choosing the size, shape and general configuration of apusher, such as, for example, the anticipated forces acting on thepusher, the diameter and depth of the cavity, etc. In one embodiment,for a cantilever spring type pusher, a trapezoidal shaped pusher isconfigured to provide enhanced resistance against various forces andbending stresses.

FIG. 45 illustrates one embodiment of a cup holder 1000 comprising aninsert 1010, which is configured to snugly retain an aluminum can (e.g.,a 12-ounce soda can). Therefore, if the diameter or other transversesize of the cup holder's cavity is larger than a particular typebeverage container (e.g., aluminum can, disposable coffee cup, plasticbottle, energy drink can, etc.), an insert 1010 can be included toprovided a tighter, more secure fit. In some embodiments, the insert1010 is constructed of a material that is efficient is conductingthermal energy to provide enhanced heat transfer between the beveragecontainer cup holder 1000, the insert 1010 and the container 510. Insome embodiments, the outside of the insert 1010 is configured toconform to the shape of the cup holder cavity 1002. However, in otherembodiments, the clearance between the outside of the insert 1010 andthe inside of the cup holder 1000 can vary. It will be appreciated thatinserts specifically designed for other types of containers can also beused.

Multiple-Cavity Beverage Containers

FIG. 46A illustrates a cup holder 1020 having two side-by-side cavities1022, 1024, each of which is configured to receive a container. Such anarrangement can allow users to store, and if desired possiblytemperature regulate, two or more different containers in a single cupholder assembly. In some embodiments, one cavity 1022 can provide acooling effect to a beverage container placed therein, while the othercavity 1024 provides a warming effect to a beverage container placedtherein. Alternatively, both cavities 1022, 1024 can be cold or hot, asdesired by the user. In other embodiments, additional cavities (e.g.,three, four, five, etc.) can be provided.

In the embodiment of a multi-cavity cup holder arrangement 1025illustrated in FIG. 46B, each cavity 1026 a, 1026 b includes athermoelectric device (TED) 1027 a, 1027 b coupled to dedicated heatexchanger 1028 a, 1028 b (e.g., fins). In other embodiments, a cupholder arrangement can include more or fewer cavities, TEDs and/or heatexchangers. As illustrated, a first side of the TED 1027 a, 1027 b canbe conductively coupled to the cup holder cavity 1026 a, 1026 b asdescribed above. In FIG. 46B, the first side of each TED is configuredto be cold. Therefore, the second side, which is coupled to a heatexchanger is hot.

With continued reference to FIG. 46B, the cup holder arrangement 1025includes a single blower 1030 which is configured to deliver air orother fluid past both heat exchange units 1028 a, 1028 b (e.g., fins).Thus, heat generated by the second side of the TEDs 1027 a, 1027 b canbe transferred to the passing fluid and advantageously moved away fromthe cup holder arrangement 1025. By using a single blower 1030 todeliver fluid to both heat exchangers 1028 a, 1028 b, the size of thedepicted cup holder arrangement 1025 can advantageously reduced. Inaddition, the construction of the cup holder arrangement is simplifiedand the electrical demand related to air delivery can be reduced.

FIGS. 47A-47C illustrate other embodiments of a multi-cavity cup holder1040, 1050, 1060. In FIG. 47A, two thermoelectric devices 1043 a, 1043 bare thermally connected to a common heat exchanger 1044. Air can bedelivered to the common heat exchanger 1044 using a single blower or fan1048. In one embodiment, the heat exchanger can be constructed fromextruded aluminum or other materials with desirable heat transferproperties (e.g., copper, beryllium, etc.). In some embodiments, thethermal communication between the two thermoelectric devices 1043 a,1043 b in the form of a common heat exchanger 1044 can affect thethermal performance of the cup holder's cooling or heating system.

In the embodiment of a multi-cavity cup holder assembly 1050schematically illustrated in FIG. 47B, the thermal bridging or thermalcommunication between the two cavities 1052 a, 1052 b is reduced byseparating the two heat exchange elements 1054 a, 1054 b from eachanother. As shown, to enhance thermal isolation, the two cavities 1052a, 1052 b are in separate housings 1055 a, 1055 b. Further, a flow ofair (represented by arrow 1059) can be passed between the two cavities1052 a, 1052 b for additional thermal isolation. Airflow between the twocavities 1052 a, 1052 b can be provided in a dedicated duct or conduit.Alternatively, a volume of air can be continuously or intermittentlydelivered between the two cavities 1052 a, 1052 b (or housings 1055 a,1055 b) without using a duct or conduit.

With reference to FIG. 47C, the two cavities 1062 a, 1062 b arecontained within a single housing 1067. As shown, each cavity 1062 a,1062 b includes its own heat exchanger 1064 a, 1064 b. In addition, asingle blower or fan 1068 is used to direct fluid (e.g., air) to theheat exchangers 1064 a, 1064 b. In order to minimize thermal bridging orcommunication between the two cavities 1062 a, 1062 b, conduction holes1069 or similar thermal isolation members are provided between thecavities 1062 a, 1062 b. Other insulating members or methods can beused, either in lieu of or in addition to conduction holes 1069.

With reference now to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 48A-48J, a cupholder assembly 1100 comprises a pair of cup holders 1102 providedgenerally within a single housing 1104. In one embodiment, the housing1104 can form part of a center console between a pair of seats (e.g.,the front or rear seats in an automobile). The housing 1104 of theconsole defines a pair of cavities 1106 with an upper, open end and aclosed (or substantially closed lower end). The cavity 1106 can beformed from side and bottom walls formed, at least in part, by aconductive material (e.g., aluminum, copper, etc.). As will be describedin more detail below, the conductive material can be conductivelycoupled to a “cold” side or “first” side of a thermoelectric device.

The cup holder assembly 1100 can be further provided with a set ofcontrol switches 1110. In the illustrated embodiment, the controlswitches 1110 correspond to a hot button and a cold button for each cupholder 1102. Accordingly, each cup holder 1102 can be set to a hot or acold mode in which the cup holder 1102 is cooled or heated to a desiredtemperature or other setting. As described above, in modifiedembodiments, the assembly 1100 can be provided with additional switchesand/or modified input devices (e.g., dials, knobs) and/or sensors fordetecting the presence and/or temperature of a container within the cupholder. In yet other embodiments, where the control system for the cupholder 1102 is integrated with the car's control system, a user canselect a setting (e.g., “hot,” “cold,” actual temperature, etc.) usingthe car's control panel (e.g., dashboard controls).

With reference to FIGS. 48A and 48B, the cup holders 1102 can beprovided with a bias element 1112 (e.g., roller pusher), which can beconfigured as described above with reference to FIGS. 43A-43E. In otherembodiments, the bias element 1112 can be any of a variety of the biaselements described herein or modifications thereof. In the illustratedembodiment, the biasing element 1112 comprises a curved flange thatincludes a roller at the distal end of the curved flange. The proximalend of the bias element can be attached to the inside of the console. Asexplained above, the bias element 1112 advantageously pushes thecontainer or cup with in the cavity against one side of the cup holder1102. In this manner, conductive heat transfer between the conductionelement and the container is enhanced.

With reference to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 48F, which is abottom view of the cup holder assembly 1100, a pair of thermoelectricelements 1120 are positioned below the cup holders 1102. Accordingly,each cup holder 1102 is preferably associated with an individualthermoelectric unit or device 1120 that is positioned generally belowthe bottom end of the cavity. The thermoelectric device 1120 comprises afirst side and a second side each of which can be the cold or hot sideof the device. The first side of the device can be placed intoconductive contact with the conduction element. The second side, inturn, can be placed into conductive contact with a heat sink/exchanger1122, which is shown in FIGS. 48G and 48H when a lower housing element1124 is removed from the console. In the illustrated embodiment, theheat sink 1112 comprises a convection element or other heat transferdevices (e.g., fins), which are configured to remove and/or transferheat through convention.

With continued reference to FIG. 48F, the assembly 1100 can include afluid transfer device 1130 (e.g., a fan), which is configured to forceair or another cooling fluid over the heat exchangers 1122 to aidconvection through the heat exchangers 1122. Consequently, heat can beremoved from the heat exchangers 1122, away from the cup holder assembly1100.

The thermoelectric device 1120 is preferably a Peltier device asdescribed above. A thermal interface material (e.g., grease, pad orsolder) can be used to conductively couple the first side of the device1120 the conduction element of the cup holder. In a similar, manner athermal interface (e.g., grease, pad or solder) can be used toconductively couple the second side plate to a heat exchanger 1122. Theheat exchanger 1122 is configured transfer heat to or from the ambientair. The fluid device 1130 is preferably configured to direct fluidthrough the heat exchanger 1122 to facilitate the transfer or removal ofheat through convention.

With reference to FIGS. 48F and 48G, the fluid device (e.g., an axial orradial fan) 1130 can be positioned on a side (e.g., the rear side) ofthe cup holders within the housing of the console. The fluid device 1130can be configured to draw air in axially from vent openings 1132 (seealso FIG. 48D) provided in the housing. In such embodiments, air is thendirected down by a housing 1134 of the fluid device 1130 to a spacedefined by the lower side housing 1144 (see also FIG. 481) to the heatexchangers 1122. An insert 1150 (not shown in FIG. 48F but shown in FIG.48J) combines with the lower side housing 1144 to direct flow to theheat exchangers 1122. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 48I and 48J, thehousing 1144 and insert 1150 can include vanes 1152 which are configuredto direct the air from the single fluid device 1130 to both of the heatexchangers 1122. In such embodiments, air from the heat exchangers 1122is then directed by the housing 1144 to side vents 1156 provided on theside of the console. In the illustrated embodiment, the vanes 1152 whichare provided on the insert 1150 can be configured to promote a desiredflow split (e.g., equal or non-equal) between the two heat exchangers1122. In addition, such vanes 1152 can preferably distribute the airevenly (e.g., even or uniform velocity) across each of the heatexchangers 1122 to promote efficient heat transfer. In some embodiments,the insert 1150 can be easily removed and/or attached so that differentinserts with different vane arrangements can be used to achieve thedesired flow characteristics. In some preferred embodiments, vanes 1152can be molded as part of the housing 1144, thereby eliminating the needfor a separate insert.

In use, the fan 1130 draws air through the inlet vent 1132 in adirection that is generally parallel to the rotational axis of the fan(e.g., a generally axial direction). The air is then the drawn into theenclosed space of the fan 1130 and turned approximately 90 degrees to aradial direction. The air flow can be subsequently directed, as shown,towards the space below the cup holder defined by the lower housing 1144and the insert 1150. The vanes 1152 direct the flow to both heatexchangers 1122 and spread the air equally across both heat exchangers1122.

In one mode of operation, when the thermoelectric device 1120 isoperated, the first side of the thermoelectric device 1120 is cooled asheat is transferred from the side heat exchanger 1122 to the air flowingthough the passage. The air flowing over heat exchanger 1122 isdischarged through the exit 1156.

As discussed, the first side of the thermoelectric device 1120 can becoupled to the conductive member of the cup holder. In this manner,thermoelectric devices 1120 can be used to cool the interior of the cupholder and a beverage container or other item positioned therein. Heattransfer between the beverage container (not shown) and thethermoelectric device can be enhanced by using one or more biasingelements 1112. As discussed, such biasing elements help urge thecontainer against the inner wall of the cavity.

In another mode of operation, when the thermoelectric device 1120 isoperated, the first side of the thermoelectric device 1120 is heated asheat is transferred from the air in the passage to the side heatexchanger 1122. The switches 1110 described above can be used to switchthe assembly 1110 from a heating to a cooling mode. In addition, becauseeach cup holder 1102 is associated with a thermoelectric device 1120,one cup holder 1102 can be heated while the other cup holder 1102 iscooled. In other embodiments, both cup holders 1102 can be heated orcooled. In yet other embodiments, a cup holder assembly can comprisemore or fewer cavities than discussed and/or illustrated herein.

To assist in the description of the disclosed embodiments, words such asupward, upper, downward, lower, vertical, horizontal, upstream, anddownstream have and used above to describe the accompanying figures. Itwill be appreciated, however, that the illustrated embodiments can belocated and oriented in a variety of desired positions. In addition,words such as hot, cold, large, small and the like have been used. Itshould be appreciated that such terms are relative terms and are not tobe limited to any particular level disclosed as part of one or moreembodiments.

In addition, it should be understood that the terms cooling side,heating side, cold side, hot side, cooler side and hotter side and thelike do not indicate any particular temperature, but are relative terms.For examples, the “hot,” “heating” or “hotter” side of a thermoelectricelement or array may be at ambient temperature, with the “cold,”“cooling” or “cooler” side at a cooler temperature than ambient.Conversely, the “cold,” “cooling” or “cooler” side may be at ambientwith the “hot,” “heating” or “hotter” side at a higher temperature thanambient. Thus, the terms are relative to each other to indicate that oneside of the thermoelectric device is at a higher or lower temperaturethan the counter-designed side. In addition, fluid flow is referenced inthe discussion below as having directions.

Although the foregoing description of the preferred embodiments hasshown, described, and pointed out certain novel features, it will beunderstood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in theform of the detail of the apparatus as illustrated, as well as the usesthereof, may be made by those skilled in the art without departing fromthe spirit of this disclosure. Consequently, the scope of the presentinvention should not be limited by the foregoing discussion, which isintended to illustrate rather than limit the scope of the invention.

1. A beverage container holder assembly comprising: a housing comprisingat least one holder member; wherein the at least one holder membercomprises a generally unitary structure defining an interior cavityconfigured to receive a beverage container; wherein the at least oneholder member is formed, at least in part, by a generally continuousside wall, said side wall comprising a wall thickness extending from anexterior of the housing to the interior cavity; wherein the side wall ofthe at least one holder member comprises a heat conduction elementextending across an entire wall thickness of the side wall of the atleast one holder member; a climate control system for selectivelycooling or heating a beverage container positioned within the interiorcavity of the at least one holder member, said climate control systemcomprising: a cooling or heating device having a first side thermallycoupled the at least one cup holder member; and a fluid transfer deviceconfigured to transfer air through or near at least a portion of thecooling or heating device; wherein the heat conduction element isconfigured to thermally transfer heat between the cooling or heatingdevice and the interior cavity of the at least one cup holder member;wherein the first side of the cooling or heating device is directlycoupled to the generally unitary structure of the side wall of the atleast one cup holder member; and wherein heat transfer between thecooling or heating device and the interior cavity is generallyconfigured to occur through substantially an entire circumference of thegenerally continuous side wall of the at least one cup holder member. 2.The assembly of claim 1, wherein the fluid transfer device comprises aradial fan.
 3. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the fluid transferdevice comprises an axial fan.
 4. The assembly of claim 1, wherein theat least one holder member includes means for biasing a beveragecontainer against a portion of the side wall of the at least one cupholder member.
 5. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the cooling orheating device comprises a thermoelectric device.
 6. The assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the cooling or heating device is positioned directlybelow or along side the at least one cup holder member.
 7. The assemblyof claim 1, wherein the fluid transfer device is positioned along theside of the at least one cup holder member.
 8. The assembly of claim 1,wherein the heat conduction element comprises at least one of a metaland an alloy.
 9. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the heat conductionelement comprises at least one of aluminum and copper.
 10. The assemblyof claim 1, wherein the at least one cup holder member comprises abiasing member to help urge a beverage container positioned therein inthe direction of the side wall of the at least one cup holder member.11. A beverage container holder assembly comprising: a container holdermember defining an interior cavity configured to receive a beveragecontainer, said container holder member comprising an exterior surfaceand an interior surface, said interior surface extending to saidinterior cavity; wherein the container comprises a generally unitarystructure that is formed, at least in part, by a generally continuousside wall; wherein the side wall comprises a wall thickness extendingfrom the exterior surface to the interior surface of the containerholder member; wherein the side wall comprises at least one heatconduction element extending across an entire wall thickness in at leasta portion of said side wall; a temperature conditioning systemconfigured to cool or heat a beverage container positioned within theinterior cavity of the container holder member, said temperatureconditioning system comprising: a temperature regulating device having afirst side thermally coupled the container holder member; and a fluidtransfer device configured to transfer air through, past or near atleast a portion of the temperature regulating device; wherein the atleast one heat conduction element is configured to thermally transferheat between the temperature regulating device and the interior cavityof the container holder member; and wherein the first side of thetemperature regulating device is directly coupled to the side wall ofthe container holder member.
 12. The assembly of claim 11, wherein thetemperature regulating device comprises a thermoelectric device.
 13. Theassembly of claim 11, wherein the fluid transfer device comprises aradial fan or an axial fan.
 14. The assembly of claim 11, wherein thecontainer holder member comprises at least one biasing member forbiasing a beverage container against a portion of the side wall.
 15. Theassembly of claim 11, wherein the temperature regulating device ispositioned directly below or along side the container holder member. 16.The assembly of claim 11, wherein the at least one heat conductionelement comprises at least one of a metal and an alloy.
 17. The assemblyof claim 11, wherein the at least one heat conduction element comprisesat least one of aluminum and copper.